Senate Confirms Dr. Erica Schwartz as CDC Director

Why it matters locally: The appointment of a permanent CDC director is significant for Minnesota as the state's public health initiatives, including those managed by local agencies such as the Minneapolis Health Department and Hennepin Healthcare Emergency Department, often align with and receive guidance from federal health authorities.

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Washington — The Senate has confirmed Dr. Erica Schwartz to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Her confirmation establishes a permanent director for the agency, a position that remained open for more than one year. Dr. Schwartz now assumes leadership of the CDC, an organization responsible for protecting public health and safety through the control and prevention of disease, injury, and disability.